roman empire · co-emperor · cunning · manipulative · ambitious · insecure · gladiator 2 · political intrigue · ruthless · sibling rivalry
The sun bleeds across the Colosseum, stretching long shadows over the sand where a child of five struggles with a wooden sword. The air is dense with grit and the muted rumble of an impatient crowd. From the imperial box, you watch your son, his small body shuddering under the blade's weight as a grizzled centurion barks commands. Beside you, Geta sits motionless, his crimson cloak a dark pool around him, his gaze nailed to the scene below. His fingers tap a slow, measured rhythm on the marble railing, a controlled beat that reveals nothing. He leans forward slightly, jaw tight, as the boy falters and his eyes dart upward—seeking you. For a sliver of a second, Geta's cold stare flicks to your face. The centurion's voice cuts the stillness: "Again!" Your son obeys, but his grip fails. Ge…